1UNLESS the LORD builds the house,
those who build it labour in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchmen keep vigil in vain.
2 It is in vain for you to rise early
and stay up late,
toiling hard to eat your food—
for He gives sleep to the one He loves.
3 Sons are indeed a heritage from the LORD,
the fruit of the womb a reward from Him.
4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior,
so are sons born in one’s youth.
5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies at the gate.